Central Oregon Tool Library
location_onBend, Oregon
infoAbout Central Oregon Tool Library
Central Oregon Tool Library operates from 224 NE Thurston Avenue in Bend and uses a sliding-scale membership model with a suggested minimum of $1 per $1,000 of annual income, with no one turned away for inability to pay. The organization maintains a 5.0 out of 5 star rating based on community feedback and operates as a volunteer-run community project dedicated to making tools accessible regardless of financial circumstances.
Membership and borrowing structure
The library charges sliding-scale membership fees rather than a fixed annual rate, establishing an income-based approach to accessibility. The suggested contribution is $1 per $1,000 of annual household income—meaning someone earning $50,000 annually would pay approximately $50 per year, while someone earning $30,000 would pay around $30. This structure allows individuals with lower incomes to access tools at proportionally lower costs. The organization's stated policy is that inability to pay does not disqualify membership, ensuring that financial constraints do not prevent community members from joining.
reviewsWhat Members Say
CUSTOMERS LOVE
The tool selection and variety available; the helpful and knowledgeable volunteer staff; the cost savings compared to buying tools for one-time projects.
GOOD TO KNOW
Membership pays for itself quickly if you borrow tools regularly for occasional projects.
SOME NOTE
Insufficient reviews to identify consistent improvement areas.
BEST FOR
DIYers and homeowners who need tools for occasional projects; budget-conscious people looking to avoid single-use tool purchases.
helpFrequently Asked Questions
help_outlineWhat are the hours of operation for Central Oregon Tool Library?
Central Oregon Tool Library is open on Saturdays from 9 am to 11 am and Sundays from 3 pm to 5 pm. The library is closed Monday through Friday.
help_outlineHow much does membership cost?
Central Oregon Tool Library uses a sliding scale membership fee based on annual income, with a suggested minimum of $1 per $1,000 annual income (for example, $50/year for a $50,000 annual income). However, no one is turned away for inability to pay.
help_outlineWhat types of tools does Central Oregon Tool Library have available?
The library offers power tools, woodworking tools, and gardening tools. For a complete list of available tools, you can visit their website at https://www.cotool.org/
help_outlineHow do I borrow tools from Central Oregon Tool Library?
Tools can be reserved online through their website at https://www.cotool.org/, or you can check out tools in person if they are available during operating hours. All you need is to be a member.
help_outlineWhere is Central Oregon Tool Library located?
Central Oregon Tool Library is located at 224 NE Thurston Ave, Bend, OR 97701.
help_outlineIs Central Oregon Tool Library volunteer run?
Yes, Central Oregon Tool Library is a volunteer-run community project dedicated to making tools accessible to all members of the community.
help_outlineWhat is the mission of Central Oregon Tool Library?
Central Oregon Tool Library is a community project that makes tools accessible to all. By borrowing instead of buying, they help reduce waste and costs, foster skills, and build community connections. They believe that access to tools shouldn't depend on income or ability.
Tools are borrowed. These you own.
Safety gear, consumables, and basics that Central Oregon Tool Librarydoesn't lend — buy them once and finish the job. Every item below ships from Amazon.
Tool libraries lend the tools — but you bring your own PPE. These are the basics worth keeping on a shelf.
ANSI-Rated Safety Glasses
Anti-fog, scratch-resistant. The pair you'll actually wear.
Work Gloves (Cut-Resistant)
Level-5 cut resistance handles utility blades and rough lumber.
Ear Protection (NRR 28+)
Circular saws and routers exceed 100 dB. NRR 28+ is the safe floor.
N95 Dust Masks (10-pack)
Critical for sanding, sawing MDF, or drywall work.
Tool libraries don't lend the stuff that gets used up. Buy these once, finish your project.
Sandpaper Variety Pack
60 to 400 grit covers most rough-to-finish work.
Drill Bit Set (Titanium)
Goes through wood, plastic, and most metals. Lasts longer than HSS.
Utility Knife Blades (100-pack)
Standard-size, fit most retractable knives. Cheaper in bulk.
Wood Screws Variety Box
Mixed lengths and gauges — saves a hardware-store trip mid-project.
Cheap, used constantly, not worth a library trip. Build your own small kit with these.
25-ft Tape Measure
Magnetic hook, standout reach. The one tool you'll grab daily.
Combination Screwdriver Set
Magnetic tips. Phillips + flathead in the sizes you'll actually use.
Stud Finder (Magnetic + Electronic)
Multi-mode finders catch both magnetic fasteners and wood/metal studs.
9-in-1 Multi-Bit Driver
Replaces a kit of screwdrivers and nut drivers in one handle.
Books and plans that show you how to actually use the tools you're borrowing.
Reader's Digest Complete DIY Manual
Plumbing, electrical, carpentry, drywall — the household bible.
The Woodworker's Pocket Book
Joints, wood species, finishes — fits in a tool bag.
Black & Decker Wiring Guide
Code-current, illustrated, written for homeowners not electricians.
Pencil & Carpenter Marker Set
Mechanical carpenter pencils + deep-hole markers — endless small wins.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Recommendations are editorially independent — picks based on what tool-library users typically need alongside borrowed tools.
location_onContact & Location
dashboardFeatures & Categories
card_membershipMembership & Pricing
Annual membership gives you access to the full tool inventory for borrowing.
compare_arrowsNearby Tool Libraries
| Name | Location | Distance | Rating | Membership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ToolBox Project | Eugene, OR | 90 mi | star5.0 | — |
| Southwest Portland Tool Library | Portland, OR | 119 mi | star5.0 | 25 |
| North Portland Tool Library | Portland, OR | 125 mi | star4.8 | Free |
| Klamath Tool Library | Klamath Falls, OR | 129 mi | star5.0 | 25 |
| Tacoma Tool Library | Tacoma, WA | 227 mi | star5.0 | 25 |
Interested in Central Oregon Tool Library?
Become a member and start borrowing tools today.
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